Those of us who embrace the Insider philosophy tend to shy away from the more heavily traveled tourist spots, but I'm reluctant to tell you to skip them all together. In fact, I have returned several times to these places, mainly because they provide some good photo opportunities as well as fun activities all in one location. Here are a few of my favorites that I think are worth the entrance fee.

Punta Sur Ecological ParkLocated on the southern tip of the island, Punta Sur Park has a number of attractive features for photographers, such as the Celerain Lighthouse, crocodile ponds, small ruins, the Columbia lagoon with nesting areas for birds, and both a rocky, wavy coastline as well as a nice swimming and snorkel beach. I like to get there in the morning and shoot for awhile, hit the beach while the sun is high and hot,and then tour the lagoon before heading back to the main areafor some nicely lit late afternoon shots. A good zoom or a long lens is helpful for close ups of the crocs, birds, and other animals.

In late December and early January, the lagoon becomes the nesting grounds for thousands of birds including spoonbills, egrets, and herons. Next January, I will be leading a week-long Cozumel photo tour that will include a day at Punta Sur Park.
Check out my website, http://c.j.gustafson.tripod.com for more information.

San Gervasio Ruins
These ruins are located east of town, off the main road that leads across the island. In addition to the amazing Mayan structures and other ancient cultural artifacts, San Gervasio is guaranteed to provide some of the best shots of LARGE iguanas. I've been several times and have always seen at least twenty good-sized lizards climbing in the trees or sunning themselves on the walls of the ruins.

There is also a variety of plant life and other animals including butterflies and birds. Be sure to check out the growth of huge bamboo near the entrance. If you stand in it when the wind is blowing, it's like being surrounded by enormous wind chimes. The best tip I can give for photographing San Gervasio is to avoid going during the middle of the day. Unless you have filters or are experienced with light metering, the direct sunlight will reflect off the light-colored stones and completely wash out your pictures. Plus, it's really hot walking around the open ruins with the sun beating down on you.

Chankanaab Park

This is one of Cozumel's most popular tourist spots, in part because of their Dolphin Discovery program where you can swim with bottle nosed dolphins. Other photo subjects include reproductions of Mayan ruins scattered along a jungle path, and a botanical garden. Several swimming and snorkeling areas provide spots to cool off. This is another place where youshould plan to spend the whole day to get your money's worth.

Tours to all of these places can be arranged through Cozumel Insider, or they are easily accessible by scooter or rental car. Cozumel visitors really should visit these places at least once, just to experience them first-hand. Just don't let them be the only spots you visit.

Donít let fear of the unknown keep you from experiencing Cozumel's beautiful underwater world. This truly is one of the most unforgettable aspects of the island and there is more than one way to experience this!